Hitachi presents biometric-based vending machine

It's no secret the Japanese have a penchant for vending machines (even though there are - contrary to popular belief - no machines selling panties in this country). Now Hitachi made one step forward by developing a machine that doesn't need to be fed with coins or bills anymore. Your finger will be enough.

Hitachi combined its proprietary finger vein biometric authentication system with a conventional vending machine, which makes it possible for registered users to buy beverages via their credit cards. The company also incorporated a digital signage system so that buyers will get to see personalized ads or other information on an LCD screen.